The improvements Sony have packed into the WH-1000XM3 make it significantly better than its predecessors, and that puts it in good stead to compete with the Bose QC35 II, which have remained the benchmark noise cancellation headphones. It is too close to call.

The 100ABN was Sony’s first shot at challenging Bose’s dominant position in the premium, noise-cancellation headphones segment, but it’s the 1000X series that has established the company here.

Sony WH-1000X M3 review: With reliable battery backup, these noise cancelling headphones are worth the price tag....

Killer active noise cancellation headphones that nail just about everything

Excellent active noise cancellation; Great sound customisation; Extremely comfortable cups

They start with slightly boosted mid-bass

The Sony WH-1000XM3 over-ear headphones are some of the best of 2019....

Great sound; Very comfortable; Excellent ANC

Expensive; Complicated UX; Finicky controls

Sony hits the high notes with its third-generation noise cancelling wireless headphones; these are the best wireless ANC headphones around

Brilliant, dynamic sound quality; Bose-rivalling active noise cancelling; Comfortable;

None to speak of;

The Sony WH-1000XM3 model is ideal if you’re looking for wireless over-ear headphones. They offer effective noise reduction even in busy and loud places. Their lightweight material is comfortable for long-term wear, and they’re foldable for easy packing.

Released in August, Sony's WH-1000XM3 headphones are the latest in Sony's line of flagship headphones, following on from the WH-1000XM2 model that debuted at IFA 2017 and the original MDR-1000X that launched in 2016. The line was designed to compete with Bose's QuietComfort line, especially in…

Sony hits the high notes with its third-generation noise-cancelling wireless headphones; these are the best wireless ANC headphones around

Brilliant, dynamic sound quality; Bose-rivalling active noise cancelling; Comfortable;

None to speak of;

One of the finest noise cancelling headphones we've heard

The best noise cancellation ever; Excellent sound quality; Fast charge feature is great; Comfortable fit; Responsive controls;

Could do with a touch more detail in the treble;